Early Childhood Education

The Early Childhood program is designed to provide experiences in educational theory in the areas of social,
emotional, cognitive, physical/motor and creative development for children from birth through age eight. Courses
also are available for caregivers of school-age children, ages 5 through 14. Now that ongoing research reveals
the significance of early development, professional preparation has become essential for anyone pursuing a career
in the education and care of young children.

Working with young children is a challenging, rewarding and physically demanding experience. Academic expectations
for these courses require college-level study and communication skills. To succeed in this profession, it helps
to have a good self-image, outgoing personality, a sense of humor, and a commitment to nurturing children’s
growth and development.

Washington AEYC is the professional organization for those
working with children ages birth through eight years old in Washington. There are 21 local affiliate groups and
over 2,000 members throughout the state.

Contact information is listed below. Select the email link to send
an email. For general program information, contact
the administrative assistant. The globe icon
identifies faculty web sites. Click the globe to visit the site.

Students in these courses are exposed to rigorous curriculum that includes work with children, as well as
classroom discussion and theory. Students can complete their field hours with children in the SFCC Early Learning
Center, a Head Start and Early Head Start or in a variety of childcare programs setting in private child care
centers ECEAP before/after school care, as well as students own place of employment.

Public elementary schools expose them to different program structures and teaching styles. This broad exposure to
a variety of settings with children, under direct supervision of a master teacher, is one of the program's
strengths.

The Early Childhood Education department offers eight Certificates of Specialization. These short-term certificates address many
of the specializations currently offered by employers in the field.

Infant Toddler Specialist

Curriculum Development Specialist

Early Childhood Specialist I

Early Childhood Specialist II. (Must have completed ECS I)

Family Services Advocate

Family Child Care Specialist

Child Care Administration Specialist

Shool-age Care Specialist

For more information about these certificates, view the
current career guide and click on the "Certificate" link; or call LeighAnna Drake in the Early Childhood
Education department: (509) 533-3404.

Early childhood professionals must acquire the necessary knowledge and skill to
maximize children’s early potential in all areas of development. This has increased
an already solid demand for graduates from the Early Childhood Education program
at Spokane Falls Community College. Recent research in how the brain grows and develops
shows that early experiences make permanent impressions on the structure and functioning
of the young child’s fast growing brain.

Pay scales for entry-level positions range from minimum wage to $12.00 an hour depending
on the employer. With experience and continued education, graduates of the early
childhood education program may pursue management level positions, such as center
director, resulting in higher salary ranges.

All course offerings are subject to change. The college cannot guarantee class offerings,
designated times or specific instructors - as funding levels and student interest may affect whether or not an
offering is available.

Click on the course title to view course description.

Class

Credits

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I transfer my ECE credits/degree from SFCC to four year institutions?